About
Synthesising evidence from neuroscience, psychology, and survivor research, this course offers a comprehensive overview of what trauma is, what happens in our brains and bodies, and how it affects survivors. In part 1, we define what trauma is. We consider; difficult vs traumatic experiences, trauma vs traumatic events, types of trauma, causes of trauma, and prevalence. In part 2, we delve into our brains to understand how traumatic experiences affect us. We explore; the stress response system (how we try to protect ourselves against overwhelming threat), the memory system (how we store traumatic memories), the developmental context (how we are shaped by the environment we grow up in), and the impact on survivors. In part 3, we look at the link between trauma and mental health. We consider; trauma's impact on mental health, trauma and intersectionality, and trauma healing and the therapeutic landscape. We include videos (with closed captions), animations, quizzes, and reflective prompts, and we give you access to additional resources, including podcasts, talks, and recommended readings. The course is self-paced. Once finished, you will receive a certificate of completion. This course is for anyone interested in learning about trauma. You may work with trauma survivors or you may be a trauma survivor yourself or know someone who is.
